Kanpur FSDA Launches Major Pre-Holi Crackdown on Food Adulteration
In a significant operation aimed at ensuring food safety during the festive season, the Food Security and Drug Administration (FSDA) department in Kanpur conducted coordinated raids, resulting in the seizure of adulterated mawa and edible oil valued at approximately Rs 29.08 lakh. The crackdown, executed on Wednesday, also led to the destruction of a substantial quantity of unsafe food products deemed unfit for human consumption.
Railway Station Raid Uncovers Unhygienic Mawa Consignment
Acting on specific intelligence, a specialized FSDA team carried out a surprise raid at Panki Railway Station. The operation targeted a consignment of around 9 quintals of mawa that had allegedly been transported into the city via an Etawah–Kanpur passenger train. Upon the arrival of officials, the labourers who were unloading the mawa immediately fled the scene, abandoning the goods.
The seized mawa was found wrapped in dirty cloth and stored in extremely unhygienic conditions, prompting authorities to declare it completely unsuitable for consumption. With no individual stepping forward to claim ownership, the mawa, valued at Rs 3.42 lakh, was promptly transported to a rubbish disposal plant and destroyed to prevent any potential public health risks.
FSDA Team Intercepts Additional Mawa During Disposal
While en route to the disposal site, the FSDA team made an additional interception. They stopped an e-rickshaw that was carrying mawa, and on this occasion, the carrier did claim ownership of the consignment. Following standard protocol, the officials collected two samples for detailed laboratory testing. After conducting a preliminary examination, the remaining mawa was released, pending further investigation based on the test results.
Separate Operation Targets Adulterated Soybean Oil
In a distinct operation conducted on Tuesday evening, another FSDA team raided a trader's shop located in the Sachendi area. During this raid, authorities discovered a large stock of soybean oil under the brand names Amrit, Maya, and Safari. This oil was allegedly imported from Nepal and raised immediate suspicions of adulteration.
To verify these concerns, on-the-spot testing was performed using the mobile Food Safety on Wheels laboratory. The tests confirmed the presence of adulterants in the oil. Consequently, the team seized approximately 15,894 litres of the adulterated edible oil, with an estimated value of Rs 25.66 lakh, adding significantly to the total value of seized items.
Authorities Intensify Festive Season Inspections
According to Food Safety Officer Sanjay Pratap Singh, these actions were taken in strict compliance with directives issued by the District Magistrate. The special FSDA team involved in the operations included key members such as Rajnish Kumar Rai, Ajay Kumar Maurya, Somnath Kushwaha, Anil Kumar, Sanjay Kumar Verma, and Sarika Singh.
Officer Singh emphasized that the department has ramped up inspections across the entire district to combat food adulteration, particularly during the festive season leading up to Holi. A special campaign is currently underway to deter adulterators and ensure that all edible items meet stringent safety standards, thereby protecting public health.
The coordinated efforts highlight the FSDA's commitment to proactive enforcement and consumer protection, especially during periods of high demand for festive foods.
